On this episode of Developing the Block, Trey and Elizabeth welcome Crystal Morphis, Chair of the NCEDA Foundation, and Steve Yost, Vice Chair of the NCEDA Foundation, for the podcast’s first two guest conversation.

Crystal and Steve share the purpose of the NCEDA Foundation, why it matters to the economic development profession, and how scholarships, professional development, and programs like Career Trek help support the next generation of economic developers. They also discuss the importance of investing in people, getting involved through NCEDA, and supporting the Foundation’s silent auction fundraiser at the NCEDA Fall Conference in Asheville.

Plus, Steve shares a classic economic development war story involving an international client visit during hurricane season, because in this profession, sometimes the best lessons come when the plan goes sideways.

In this episode, Elizabeth and Trey sit down with Kelly Bowers, NCCED, Economic Development Director for Hertford County and Economic Development Specialist with Timmons Group.

Kelly shares how a passion for real estate, revitalization, and problem solving grew into a career in economic development. With experience in rural communities, smart growth, agriculture, industry, tourism, and community development, Kelly brings a thoughtful perspective on what it takes to connect the dots and help places move forward.

The conversation covers her work in Hertford County, her role with Timmons Group, and the importance of building stronger communities by understanding both the people and the opportunities in front of them.

It is a great conversation about rural economic development, creative thinking, partnerships, and the kind of work that makes communities better.

Listen now on all major podcast apps and watch on the NCEDA YouTube channel.

We are back.

After a long hiatus, Developing the Block returns for Season 3 with a new name, a fresh start, and a very special first guest.

In this episode, Elizabeth and Trey welcome Walt Sprouse, a longtime economic development leader, mentor, and friend. Walt talks about his long history with Elizabeth, including knowing her since she was a child, and shares stories from a career spent helping communities grow, compete, and win major projects.

Walt’s experience stretches across decades of economic development work, from leading Randolph County Economic Development Corporation to serving as Executive Director of the Augusta Economic Development Authority, where his work helped bring more than $5.7 billion in new and expanded investment and more than 56,000 jobs. He has also served as a past president of the North Carolina Economic Developers Association and received Lifetime Achievement recognition from NCEDA.

It is a conversation about projects, people, mentorship, and the relationships that make this profession special.

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